Mystery Shopping

What is mystery shopping?

Mystery shopping, secret shopping, trained consumers, service monitoring - do these terms sound familiar?

Mystery shopping (or whatever term you have heard or use) is the evaluation a shopping experience provided by trained shoppers who know in advance what they are to evaluate. Mystery shoppers call or visit a business and report their experience via reports or questionnaires.

Why do companies use mystery shoppers?

Nearly every business uses mystery shopper services on a regular basis. It allows them to evaluate their own customer service through the eyes of the consumer. It shows where they are lacking and how to improve. Important decisions can be made based on the based on the information provided.

What will I need to do as a mystery shopper?

There are many different companies you could choose to work for. Each company has different clients and different type of assignments. You could be asked to visit a store, make a purchase, buy a cellphone, make a phone call, inquire about a rental, evaluate a parking lot, etc.

After you complete your visit you will need to submit a detailed evaluation of your experience. You may also be asked to submit receipts, photos, etc.

Am I reimbursed? How much do I get paid?

Sometimes you are asked to make a small purchase and you are reimbursed after you provide the receipt. Each company is different so the pay will vary. You are told before accepting an assignment, how much you will be paid.

Am I going to get rich?

I see a lot of ads stating that you can earn thousands of dollars a week by mystery shopping. Mystery shopping is just like anything else - you get what you put into it. Many people do very well by mystery shopping. However, they have been doing it for a while and they have built a reputation. I don't know anyone who has ever gotten rich from mystery shopping.

Have you ever done mystery shopping?

I'm often asked if I have had any experience with the companies that I post on my site. I have had all kinds of work at home jobs. So the answer to this question is, of course. I have worked for several mystery shopping companies in the past and I have always been paid. It was usually easy and fun and I got many free pizzas!

Should I buy a list of Mystery Shopping companies?

Rule #1: Don't pay to work! You do not need to pay anyone to tell you how to find mystery shopping companies. The information is out there for free. A simple google search will provide you with a ton of FREE information.

Here is a company just to get you started:

A Closer Look provides service evaluations for hotels and restaurants.